How many years have you been using the services of your hairdresser, barber, landscaper, handyman, insurance agent , accountant, attorney, or other professional service provider?
You may have had the same doctor for many years, but have you ever changed banks? Why not? Because it’s a hassle to switch and you are generally happy with the service you receive.
Most service providers understand that your current and past clients are an excellent source for repeat and referral business. They don't worry about competition because they've taken the time to establish personal relationship with their clients, employees, vendors and suppliers. Furthermore, their service is impeccable.
Why am I telling you this? When conducting business in person, it's no secret that in order to be successful in business, you need to have a strong customer base. And one of the best ways to cultivate a loyal customer base is by developing customer loyalty.
When conducting business online, because of the ability to reach massive numbers of people, one can easily forget that behind the computer screen is a real person with real needs.
The key to developing customer loyalty both online and offline is the same: establish a personal relationship with your customer and be able to clearly explain how your services will benefit them in provable terms.
It really is that simple. Your customers are the key to your success, so why not show them some love? After all, it’s much easier (and cheaper) to keep a current customer than it is to find a new one.
Of course, this is easier said than done. After all, customers are bombarded with choices everywhere they turn. So how can you make sure that your customers are loyal to your brand?
Here are a few tips:
Use the power of story.Customers connect with businesses that have a story, so make sure yours is one worth telling!
Produce a monthly newsletter, magazine and email nurture sequence. These are great ways to keep your customers updated on what's going on with your business, as well as share helpful tips and resources.
Offer a VIP experience. This could be anything from exclusive discounts to early access to new products or services.
Make sure your customer feels seen, heard, and respected. This is the foundation of any good relationship! By strengthening your buyer personas, empathy maps and customer journey maps, you are in a unique position to customize customer touchpoints that provide a WOW customer experience.
Always remember that your Customers are the key to your success. Fortunes are made AND LOST when customers feel mistreated, disrespected, and taken for granted. The reality is that people choose to spend their hard earned money with you. Therefore, take the time to create a culture of gratitude and appreciation.
Acknowledge the special events in a customer's life. This could be anything from a birthday to a new baby to a major life milestone. Sending a card or small gift is a great way to let your customers know that you're thinking of them.
Show your appreciation for their business.Whether it's a handwritten thank-you note or a small discount on their next purchase, let them know that you value their business.
Share before and after testimonials, case studies and visuals. This will show your potential clients that you're the real deal.
Make it easy for customers to leave reviews and feedback. This allows you to keep track of how you're doing and make necessary changes.
Be available when they need you. This does NOT mean that you must be available 24/7/365. It means putting systems in place so that if they have a question or concern, you can address it in a timely manner.
Source ethically. This is important for two reasons: first, because it's the right thing to do; and second, because customers are becoming more and more interested in where their products come from.
Be a global citizen. With the rise of the internet, businesses are no longer confined to one country. Customers come in all shapes, sizes, colors, cultures, and backgrounds. The more diverse your customer base is, the more loyal they will be!
Embrace social entrepreneurship. This is a new term for an old concept: businesses that focus on making the world a better place. Customers are attracted to businesses with a social conscience, so make sure yours is one of them!
Innovate your business model to better service your customers. This could mean anything from changing the way you communicate with them to introducing new products or services.
Use futurism tools. This is a fancy way of saying that you should use technology to your advantage. Customers appreciate businesses that are on the cutting edge, so make sure you're using the latest and greatest tools available.
Developing customer loyalty is key to having long-term success in business. By following these tips, you can create strong relationships with your customers that will last for years to come!
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more helpful tips on how to grow your business.
